COVID-19 and Fertility Treatment

All our Covid updates in relation to fertility treatment can be found below.

National Lockdown and Fertility Treatment

In light of the national lockdown introduced in England and Scotland, we want to reassure both current and new patients that all our clinics remain open, fully operational and treatments are continuing as usual with our existing Covid safety measures remaining. We would also like to reassure patients that they can leave home to attend a medical appointment.

If you have any questions, do get in touch with us.

Our Covid safety measures include:

• Video consultations– we have introduced Skype consultations, counselling and nurse consents to reduce footfall in the clinic during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Face masks – in line with Government advice you must wear a face mask when entering the clinic. Our staff will also be wearing PPE as per national guidelines dependent on the procedures that they are undertaking.
• Reception– you will be met at reception by one of our staff, with a SMILE (no handshakes!). They will ask you about any symptoms, request that you use the gel to clean your hands then take your temperature.
• Moving about in the clinic– you will then be directed to your appointment. Please adhere to the social distancing rules of two metres. Our staff will be wearing personal protective equipment as per national guidelines, but again always with a SMILE.
• Cleaning– a rigorous cleaning programme will be carried out throughout the day, paying particular attention to handrails, door handles, toilets and areas with a high touchpoint.
• Hand sanitiser stations – these are available throughout the clinic.
• Partners – partners are now permitted to attend for the following: egg collection, embryo transfer and pregnancy scans.

Is it safe to take the COVID-19 vaccine if I am currently or planning to have fertility treatment?

The HFEA has recently updated its advice, now stating that women who are trying to conceive do not need to delay pregnancy or fertility treatment after vaccination. It also advises that, if pregnant, women should discuss with their doctor the risks and benefits of vaccination, balancing COVID-19 infection rates and any underlying health conditions with the lack of safety data of COVID-19 vaccines in pregnancy.

How will my treatment differ?

Most patients will however find that their treatment cycle will be the same, just with the above-mentioned safety measures in place. We may discuss altering your treatment to maximise your safety if you have an underlying medical condition.

If I catch Covid-19, will I have to cancel my treatment?

For the safety of you, your embryos, and those around you, we would need to pause your treatment until you are well again if you test positive for coronavirus. HFEA guidance states that individuals should wait 28 days after recovering from Covid-19 before resuming or starting treatment.

Can I still have an in-person consultation?

Clinics are continuing to undertake consent, medical and counselling consultations for new and current patients via Skype or telephone.

If you are an existing patient, please do contact us via the Patient Portal to discuss any concerns you have. If you are looking to start treatment, then please do contact your nearest clinic.

More Information

If you are in self-isolation, develop a persistent new cough or a fever, please do not come to the clinic. Contact NHS 111 if you are unsure more guidance is AVAILABLE HERE

HFEA patient information AVAILABLE HERE

UK Government advice is AVAILABLE HERE

Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists pregnancy advice is AVAILABLE HERE